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Buy Guatemalan quetzales (GTQ) today. Our favourable Guatemala currency exchange rates ensure you’ll get extra GTQ currency when you convert with us. 

Choose Manor FX as your currency converter. Get your Guatemalan quetzal banknotes securely delivered to your home or office for free when you spend £750+.

You can also click and collect them at the convenient Manor FX bureau near Heathrow.

Benefit from speedy delivery and a straightforward online ordering process for your Guatemalan quetzal currency. 

We don’t charge low fees; we charge no fees! And we sell more currencies than anyone else. 

Guatemala travel money

Embark on your journey to Guatemala in Central America well-prepared. Here are some valuable insights into Guatemala quetzal currency, card payments and how money’s used in Guatemala.

What currency does Guatemala use?

The official currency of Guatemala is the Guatemalan quetzal. 

The currency of Guatemala’s name, “quetzal”, comes from the national bird of Guatemala, the Resplendent Quetzal bird, which symbolises freedom.  

The currency symbol is Q

The Guatemala currency code is GTQ.

We offer the best British pound to Guatemalan quetzal exchange rate. 

Check our rates and convert British pounds to Guatemalan quetzales today! Avoid hidden fees and pesky airport exchange fees.  

We’ll also buy back quetzales. Convert Guatemalan quetzal to GBP at the best Guatemala currency exchange rate when you return.

Where can I buy Guatemalan quetzal in the UK? 

The Guatemala quetzal is an exotic currency. That makes finding a currency converter in the UK tricky  

Online currency exchange platforms (like ours!) allow you to order Guatemalan quetzales online. Then have them delivered directly to you. 

You can collect your Guatemalan money if you prefer; we’re the best Guatemalan quetzal exchange in London. 

Should I exchange money before going to Guatemala? 

Yes, exchanging some money (British pounds GBP for Guatemalan quetzales) is a good idea before your trip. 

This way, you’ll have local currency on hand for initial expenses like transportation and small purchases. 

What currency is best for Guatemala?

The best currency to use in Guatemala is the Guatemalan quetzal. It’s the official currency in Guatemala.

Using it will make your transactions smoother and avoid potential currency exchange fees. 

While some places may accept USD, using the local currency, GTQ, is still better for the best value and acceptance. 

Can I use my bank card in Guatemala?

You can use your bank card in Guatemala, but keep these points in mind:

• Vendors may require phone verifications and may add card fees (5-10%). 
• ATMs allow withdrawals in quetzales; use those from well-known banks. 
• Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but cash is preferred in rural parts of the country.  
• Ensure your card supports ‘swipe and sign’ payments, which is more common than ‘chip and pin.’ 
• To prevent account issues, check with your bank about foreign transaction fees and inform them of your travel plans. 
• Carry cash as a backup, especially in rural areas, and stay cautious to avoid fraud.

Should I bring cash to Guatemala?

Yes. It’s advisable to bring quetzal money in cash when travelling to Guatemala. Especially if you plan to explore areas beyond the major cities or travel across the country.  

Most vendors in Guatemala prefer cash as their payment method when you make a spend. 

It is a reliable backup when card payments are unavailable or have high fees.

Some vendors in Guatemala will accept US dollar banknotes. Be aware that they should be in crisp and clean denominations of $50 and $100.  

Is it better to use cash or credit cards in Guatemala?

In Guatemala, it’s generally better to use a combination of cash and credit cards. Cash is accepted everywhere, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. 

Credit cards like Mastercard are easy to use in larger cities and tourist areas. 

Carrying both is a good idea for flexibility. Avoid using credit cards for small purchases to minimise fees. 

How much cash should I take to Guatemala?

The amount of cash to take to Guatemala depends on your travel plans, expenses, and preferences. 

Estimate daily expenses, including accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities. Then multiply by the number of days you’ll be there. 

Plan to convert some extra cash for emergencies and small expenses like tips.  

While ATMs are available in major cities, it is wise to carry some cash, especially in rural parts of the country. 

Be aware of card fees for international transactions. Make sure to prioritise safety by not carrying too much cash and using a money belt.

How can I avoid ATM fees in Guatemala?

1. Use ATMs affiliated with major banks in Guatemala to minimise fees. 
2. Check if your home bank has partnerships or fee reimbursement agreements to reduce costs. 
3. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to limit transaction fees, but stay cautious when carrying cash. 
4. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid blocked cards and gain advice on avoiding additional fees.

Is Guatemala expensive to visit?

No, Guatemala is generally not expensive to visit. Affordable accommodation, food, and activities make it a budget-friendly destination.

Travelers can enjoy a cost-effective trip while exploring its beautiful landscapes and rich culture.

You can expect to pay around 15 quetzales (£1.50) for a coffee in a cafe in Guatemala City. A three-course meal will set you back around 170 quetzales per person – only £17.50.

Is Guatemala good for tourists?

Yes! Guatemala offers a rich blend of culture, natural beauty, and history. 

Top activities include exploring Antigua, Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Spanish Baroque architecture and vibrant markets. 

Visit Tikal National Park to see ancient Mayan temples. 

What are the best places to visit in Guatemala?

Guatemala is home to some of Central America’s most captivating destinations.

From the stunning volcanic landscape of Lake Atitlán to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal, there’s something for every type of traveller.

Don’t miss the colourful markets of Chichicastenango or the historic charm of Antigua.

To explore these and more incredible places, check out tailored Guatemala holidays with Beyond the Ordinary, where you can plan the perfect itinerary for your adventure.

How does tipping work in Guatemala?

Tipping in Guatemala is customary but not mandatory. 

• If there’s no service charge, leave a tip of 10-15% of your spend at restaurants. 
• For tour guides, tip $5-$10 per person based on the tour’s quality. 
• Hotel staff, like bellhops and housekeepers, appreciate a few quetzales for their services.  
• Tipping taxi drivers is uncommon, but rounding up the fare is a kind gesture. 
• Tipping at street food stalls isn’t necessary, but it is appreciated for exceptional service. 

Tips are usually best in quetzales, though United States dollars are accepted in tourist areas. 

Tipping shows appreciation, so adjust based on your experience, using 1 or 5 quetzal coins and notes.

Guatemalan currency

Banknotes in Guatemala

The Central Bank of Guatemala issues the currency of Guatemala, which features denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 GTQ and the currency symbol “Q.” 

Banknotes are either polymer or paper, both valid, and showcase historical figures, landscapes, and cultural elements. 

The 1 quetzal bill depicts the national bird, the Quetzal, and the Tikal. While the 20 GTQ features Nobel laureate Miguel Ángel Asturias.    

Notes are colour-coded, like the blue 20 GTQ and brown 100 centavos. 

Carrying various denominations, including 50 centavos, is practical for purchases and tipping and helps avoid counterfeit bills. 

Coins in Guatemala

Guatemalan coins, called “Centavos,” range from 5 centavos (0.05 GTQ) to 1 quetzal (1 GTQ). They are vital for smaller transactions. The 1 quetzal exists as both a coin and a banknote. 

They feature national symbols, historical figures, and cultural elements, with distinct designs for each denomination.  

Coins in Guatemala often symbolise the country’s values and history. For example, several feature the word “Paz,” which means “Peace,” reflecting Guatemala’s commitment to peace and harmony.

They are ideal for everyday transactions, such as buying snacks, using public transport, or tipping.    

Guatemala’s currency import and export regulations

When entering or leaving Guatemala, you can take money up to $10,000 or equivalent in other currencies without declaring it.  

You should make a declaration for amounts exceeding this limit.

Order Guatemalan quetzales online

You can quickly buy Guatemalan quetzales online using Manor FX as your currency converter with the best exchange rates. (Beating the banks and the Post Office!)

Enjoy swift and secure delivery to your home or workplace through Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®. 

Alternatively, you can collect your foreign currencies from our travel money shop near Heathrow. 

Click here to convert British pounds and buy Guatemalan quetzales online. 

Sell Guatemala quetzales 

If you’ve got Guatemalan Quetzals currency to sell, simply click this link to exchange Guatemalan quetzales to pounds and check out our great exchange rates. 

Select ‘GTQ Guatemalan quetzal’ under ‘sell currency.’ We’ll offer competitive Guatemala quetzal currency rates to convert Guatemala currency to GBP. 

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